Lakewood officials distributing free reusable bags to residents
As a result of a new state law requiring establishments to charge 10 cents for plastic or paper bags, the city of Lakewood developed "Bring Your Own Bag," an online information center to assist businesses and citizens in transitioning to reusable bags.
The website Lakewood.org/FreeBags provides tools and information to help companies and municipal citizens save money by using reusable bags. As part of its efforts, the city will distribute free reusable bags during its annual Earth Day celebration in April, as well as at other events throughout the year.
According to a news release, the winner of a design contest will create the reusable bag. Residents may enter their drawings on the Lakewood website for a chance to be chosen.
"There's no prize money involved," according to the website. "But you'll have the pride of producing what your fellow residents will see when they shop, and you'll help them skip bag fees to save their cents."
Designs are due by 5 p.m. Feb.3.
Residents can access the following online sources:
- Design contest for the city's free reusable bags (children's participation encouraged)
- Video on how to make a reusable bag from an old T-shirt
- Sign-up form to be notified when Lakewood will distribute free reusable bags
- Educational information about the new state law
- Answers to frequently asked questions
- Tips on creating a "bag plan" for bringing reusable bags to shop
Business resources include:
- Bag fee checklist
- Printable handouts, posters and cashier training information
- Lakewood Business Pro log-in to ask questions of the city's finance department
- Answers to frequently asked business questions
House Bill 21-1162 "Management of Plastic Products," approved in 2021, will prevent retailers and retail food businesses from selling single-use plastic carryout bags beginning in January 2024. The required bag fee went into effect on January 1. Stores can supply recyclable paper or single-use plastic carryout bags for 10 cents or more per bag until January 1, 2024.
On or after Jan.1, 2024, stores can only provide recycled paper carryout bags for 10 cents or more per reusable bag.
"Bringing a reusable bag to shop is good for everyone," according to Lakewood's website. "Transitioning to reusable bags takes the important step of protecting the beauty of our community, with no more plastic bags blowing in the wind or snaring wildlife."
TLPPACKAGING FOR SHOPPING BAGS
